Adobo Yarn

The food world is buzzing! Following the historic first Michelin Guide selection for the Philippines complete with two stars, one star, and multiple Bib Gourmand awards, we dive into what this massive international recognition means for Filipino cuisine globally.

But first, we tackle a tough chika that hits close to home in Australia: Why do Filipinos, even here in Sydney and Melbourne, often insist that our own cuisine "should be cheap?"

We break down the economic reality versus nostalgic memory, discussing why running a sustainable Filipino restaurant in Australia costs what it does...

What happens to treasured traditions when you move halfway across the world?

 Anna and Razel discuss the Filipino rituals of Undas—All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day—and share the heartfelt memories of visiting cemeteries, gathering with family, and the unique ways the Philippines honours the departed. They compare these deep-rooted practices to the relatively new phenomenon of Halloween in Australia. 

Get ready for a candid chat about cultural shifts, preserving memory, and the bittersweet ache of celebrating (or not celebrating) beloved holidays as Filipino migrants. Do our kids e...

Hop in, mga bes! In this episode, Anna and Razel are trading their usual backyard chika for a road trip adventure across New South Wales (and a bit of ACT!). 

We're putting on our tour guide hats and taking you to the must-see sights, from the iconic sparkling Sydney Harbour and the sunny vibes of Bondi and Manly beaches, all the way to the majestic Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains. We’ll share our unfiltered Filipino takes on these Aussie landmarks, the best scenic routes, and of course, the most sulit spots to sto...

In this episode, we're talking about health from a Filipino perspective.  When you feel under the weather, who do you call first? Your doctor, or your Lola (Lolo, Tita or Nanay) with their trusted list of home remedies? 

Join Anna and Razel yarn about the unique health journey of Filipino migrants. We're exploring everything from why a simple pack of Skyflakes was the universal cure to why we still swear by a good hilot, the soothing power of Vicks VapoRub for just about any ailment and the surprising remedies our gr...

Spring is here and it's time for a reset! Ready to tackle that overwhelming pile of clutter? 

In this episode, Anna and Razel get brutally honest and confess their personal hoarding habits. Anna admits to her never-ending collection of tote bags and scarves, while Razel reveals her past obsession with Fossil bags and a shoe collection that once rivaled the legendary Imelda Marcos! 

But this episode is about more than just their confessions; it's a deep dive into the cultural art of letting go. The duo discusses how things we...

Papa, Dad, Tatay. In the tapestry of our lives, our fathers are the strong threads that hold everything together. This episode tells a tale of two Father's Days, separated by sea and several months on the calendar. 

Join Anna and Razel as they compare the sun-drenched Australian Father's Day in September with the heartfelt Filipino celebration in June. It’s a conversation that connects the sizzle of an Aussie sausage to the warmth of a Filipino adobo feast. Discover how, despite different traditions and dates, the yarn of love for our fat...

In this episode, Anna and Razel take listeners on a delicious journey through Australia's Filipino food scene. They share their favourite picks for Filipino restaurants in Sydney, from hidden gems to well-known favourites in other states.

The main dish on the table? A spicy debate: should adobo be standardised like Italy's famous Margherita Pizza (Pizza Napoletana) or France's protected Champagne? Taking off from the 2021 campaign from the Philippines' Department of Trade and Industry and the Bureau of Philippine Standards to develop the Philippine National Standards for Filipino dishes, such as adobo.<...

Join Razel and Anna for a raw and intimate yarn into the often-misunderstood world of menopause, sharing their personal journeys and the experiences of women around them. In this candid conversation, they explore the physical and emotional realities of this life stage and discuss the societal pressures and expectations that often accompany it.

The episode also highlights the groundbreaking "We Do Not Care" movement spearheaded by Instagram sensation Melani Sanders. Discover how this powerful movement is challenging outdated narratives, empowering women to embrace menopause without shame, and fostering a community of unapologetic self-acceptance. 

R...

What's it like to be a balikbayan? Join Anna and Razel as they chat about the balikbayan experience, exploring what it truly means to be a Filipino migrant returning home. This episode travels from their childhood memories of eagerly awaiting those treasure-filled balikbayan boxes from relatives abroad, to their present-day realities of navigating that same journey themselves. Razel shares stories from her recent trip, including the often-comedic dance through Manila's airport security, and the surprising customs conundrum that allows delicious bukayo into Australia, but sadly, not everyone's beloved longganisa. Tune in for relatable tales of c...

Confused by "Maccas"? Baffled by "bush tucker"? Anna and Razel spill the beans on Aussie slang! In this episode, your favourite migrant hosts share their funniest encounters and biggest revelations about Australian colloquialisms. 

From "arvo" to "drongo," "suss it out" to "chuck a U-ey," they share their own personal blunders and laugh-out-loud moments as migrants navigating this distinctive lingo and new ways of understanding culture. Discover how learning (or misinterpreting!) these everyday phrases has shaped their sense of belonging, and why "no worries" is more than just a phrase – it's a way of life. Tune in for a f...

Part of our tribute and celebration of June as PH Independence Month, join Anna and Razel for a fun and reflective journey into the iconic Bahay Kubo. More than just a simple nipa hut, this humble dwelling embodies the very essence of Filipino resilience, community, and ingenuity.

In this episode, we'll explore the Bahay Kubo as a physical structure – from its practical design and natural materials to its enduring presence throughout Philippine history. We'll delve into its origins, understanding how this traditional folk song, often learned by heart in ch...

Did you know that the Philippines was sold for US$20M through the 1898 Treaty of Paris???

As the Philippines and Filipino communities around the world prepares to celebrate Independence Day on June 12th, the name Jose Rizal rightfully takes centre stage. But what if heroism runs deeper than just one monument?

Join Anna and Razel, as they delve into the rich and diverse mosaic of Filipino heroes beyond Rizal. Both will challenge conventional definitions of heroism, unearthing stories of bravery and sacrifice from history's u...

Ever wonder why you shouldn't cut your nails at night? Or why dropping a spoon means a female visitor? 

Anna and Razel are here to unravel the mysteries (and outright absurdities!) of superstitions in this super fun episode. We'll share hilarious tales of global superstitions, then take a deep dive into the wonderfully weird and sometimes illogical beliefs that make up Filipino folklore. Prepare for some major head-scratching, belly laughs, and maybe even a realisation that you've been doing something "bad luck" your whole life!  

Tune in and discover the fascinating (and sometimes illogical) world of...

In this episode, Anna and Razel open their hearts as they reminisce about their own mothers and the carers who shaped their childhood and share their unique experiences as mums raising families in Australia. 

Listen to the intriguing history of this special day and explore the diverse ways motherhood is celebrated around the world. 

Plus, prepare for some heartwarming moments as Anna and Razel read listener submissions filled with love, gratitude, humour and personal stories from mothers and for mothers. It's a sentimental and thought-provoking episode celebrating mothers in all their wonderful forms. 

Mabuhay! In this episode Anna and Razel are diving into the treasure trove of Filipino snacks that shaped their childhoods and continue to bring them comfort in Australia. 

Listen in and join us on a delicious journey through the world of some well-loved Filipino snacks! We'll trace the origins and evolution of beloved bites like the shortbread texture of polvoron, the delicate crisp of Lengua de Gato to the addictive Clover Chips, the sweet, boat-shaped goodness of boat tarts, and the familiar favourites like flaky Hopia, creamy

Join Anna and Razel in this episode as they unravel the ritual of Lent for Filipinos, both in the Philippines and in their new home, Australia. 

Journey back with them as they share cherished childhood memories of observing Holy Week traditions in the Philippines, from the solemn chanting of the Pasyon to the joyful dawn celebration of Salubong, the reflective pilgrimage of Visita Iglesia and what it meant for them as young people and now as bearers of traditions for their families.  

Then, the conversation sh...

Buckle up, Adobo Yarn listeners, because Anna and Razel are about to take your tastebuds on a wild ride! 

This week, we're diving headfirst into the creamy, dreamy world of Star Margarine – the yellow tub that fuelled their Filipino childhoods and sparked a thousand "pampatangkad" fantasies. Then, prepare for a cultural curveball: the mighty Vegemite, that dark, pungent enigma that greeted them like a salty slap in the face upon migrating to Australia.

Get ready for some seriously funny first-time Vegemite reactions (captured live during our online taste test, cha...

Food blogging in the olden days LOL! 

In this second part episode on the topic of food, Razel and Anna pulled back the curtain on their personal food adventures. They met each other in the multiverse that is social media, through their love of food. 

Finding comfort in the kitchen while juggling parenthood and everything that goes with their new surrounds as a migrant family. Both shared how they found inspiration in everyday cooking and discovered a creative outlet for self expression and cultural connection. 

When we move to a new...